A unique ‘Beat the Heat’ product that began life as a rain protection system has been named ‘Best Green Product of the Year’ at the 2014 BGreen Awards in Dubai. Derbigum Middle East scooped the prize for a revolutionary eco-friendly roofing solution that defies everything a Gulf summer or European winter can throw at it.

The winning product is Derbipure, the world’s first combination heat-resistant and waterproofing membrane produced entirely from natural and renewable raw materials. With a lifespan of over 30 years, the roof protection system is made from pure plant oils and resins, making it a 100% sustainable solution.

The ‘BGreen’ award winner doubles as a protection not only from water and moisture ingress but also from the damaging effects of intense heat. A white acrylic coating on the membrane acts as a heat-reflector, reducing surface temperature by as much as half at the peak of a Middle East summer.

This results in both short and long term benefits. Optimal passive cooling is provided instantly – reducing energy costs, increasing the longevity of the roof and reducing the carbon footprint of the entire building. The rooftop membrane also provides complete protection against rain, which – although infrequent in the Middle East – causes widespread damage due to lack of waterproofing.

Makers Derbigum are pioneers in ecological roofing solutions. They began as a family business in Belgium in 1932 and have grown into a global group. For more than 20 years their ‘Greennovation’ line has combined the best of innovation and green building technology, producing customized solutions that reduce energy consumption, produce renewable energy and decrease CO2 emissions.

Every product manufactured by Derbigum has an ecological impact and every aspect is factored into energy calculations – from the transport of raw materials to the production process, application, and ultimately, back to the factory and recycling. All the electricity required comes from wind and solar power – and all production waste is recycled into new raw materials.

Derbipure won the ‘Best Green Product’ category from 60 other entries at the BGreen Awards, held at the Jumeirah Beach Hotel and supported by Dubai Municipality and the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing. Said Leonard Fernandes, Regional Head of Derbigum Middle East:

“Derbigum products have been used in the Gulf since the 1970’s and Derbipure is a product in the right place at the right time. Sustainability is a top priority of UAE Government in the lead up to Expo 2020 – and developers and building owners are becoming ever more aware that what is good for the environment is good for business too”.